Picking a pediatrician is a big decision…but it’s a bit of an odd experience. After all, not many of us interview five dentists before choosing one! The thing is: Most hospitals will ask for the name of your pediatrician when you’re admitted to deliver your baby, that’s why it’s important to be prepared. So, what should you ask your child’s perspective pediatrician? And how do you know you’re choosing the right one for your baby…and you? Here’s help!

How to Choose a Pediatrician

When you interview health care providers for your baby, there are two main areas you want to learn about:

  • Their general philosophy: You want a physician who is in sync with your approach to wellness and who will support you on your parenting journey.
  • The nitty-gritty of how the office is run: Truth is, parents often change pediatricians not because of the doctor themselves, but because of how the office is run!

Questions to Ask a Pediatrician

When you’re interviewing a pediatrician, take this list of questions with you:

  1. Do you take my insurance plan?
  2. What are your office hours?
  3. Are there other doctors, nurse practitioners, and/or physician’s assistants in the practice?
  4. Who'll sees my child when they're sick? Who will see my child for an after-hours emergency?
  5. Do you support breastfeeding? How so? Whom do you recommend as a lactation consultant when a mom has problems?
  6. What are the early signs of breastfeeding problems? And what is the best way to avoid problems?
  7. Do you recommend using formula?
  8. What is your stance on immunizations?
  9. What are 4 to 5 ways you would recommend to prevent illness in a baby?
  10. Do you have sick and well visitor entrances?
  11. After a family arrives in the office, how long is the usual wait to be seen? 

Putting in the time to choose the best doctor and practice for your baby is well worth it! Good luck!

About Dr. Harvey Karp

Dr. Harvey Karp, one of America’s most trusted pediatricians, is the founder of Happiest Baby and the inventor of the groundbreaking SNOO Smart Sleeper. After years of treating patients in Los Angeles, Dr. Karp vaulted to global prominence with the release of the bestselling Happiest Baby on the Block and Happiest Toddler on the Block. His celebrated books and videos have since become standard pediatric practice, translated into more than 20 languages and have helped millions of parents. Dr. Karp’s landmark methods, including the 5 S’s for soothing babies, guide parents to understand and nurture their children and relieve stressful issues, like new-parent exhaustion, infant crying, and toddler tantrums.

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Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.